Exclusive | With China in sights, US plans curb on countries’ advanced semiconductor access: sources

The new export control measure will focus on controlling the global shipments of powerful graphics processing units (GPUs) that have become instrumental in the training of AI models, closing loopholes in existing rules, according to two people familiar with the matter, who declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter. The goal is to regulate the “diffusion” of US products, helping ensure the country maintains global AI leadership.

The date of implementation remains subject to change as the measure has not been finalised. However, if confirmed, it would be a rapid escalation from the last round of chip-related sanctions that came earlier this month.

The rule was drafted with input from US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, both considered China hawks, according to one of the sources.

The US Department of Commerce declined to comment on Wednesday.